Overdue Props

Long considered utilitarian aircraft, the turboprop is enjoying a luxe transformation.

- J George Gorant

EMBRAER MADE NEWS in 2021 by sharing its vision for the future, which bridges the gap between bold and, well, old: turboprops. Its Next Generation turboprop will address what Embraer believes will be an explosion in regional air travel over the next 20 years, with a design that includes aft-mounted engines for a quieter cabin and better fuel efficiency than its competitors.

While initially aimed at the commercial market, the Next Generation remains a good example of how the new breed of turboprop is differentiating itself from the stodgy, ultra-practical blade-spinners of old. This new guard is quickly becoming known as luxe and tech-savvy aircraft that can fill the roles of small- to mid-sized jets.

"The turboprop story has been a mix of private and business use," says Philippe de Segovia, director of TBM promotion at Daher, which recently released its TBM 960. "What we see is rising interest from people who are getting caught in airline delays and cancellations, or who don't want to be forced into close quarters with others, or who need to reach places fast to make appointments without spending too much money."